The Denver Broncos surpassed expectations in 2024, clinching a playoff spot under head coach Sean Payton and quarterback Bo Nix, with a solid 10-7 record. Despite a disappointing exit in the playoffs against the Buffalo Bills, ESPN's Jeremy Fowler categorized the Broncos as the leading team 'headed in the right track,' mentioning their promising future with Nix and Payton at the helm.

To further enhance their offensive capabilities, the Broncos must address their running back situation and potentially add receiver help. With the running game ranking in the middle tier last season, the team needs to replace inconsistent players like Javonte Williams and provide competition for Audric Estime. Additionally, both Nik Bonitto and Zach Allen are due for contract extensions. The franchise must also make critical decisions on wideout Courtland Sutton as he approaches 30, while aiming to fill defensive gaps including the loss of Cody Barton and Justin Strnad.

The Denver Broncos defense concluded a stellar 2024 season, leading the NFL with 63 sacks while ranking highly in yards per game and points allowed. Key standouts included cornerback Patrick Surtain II, who not only secured the AP Defensive Player of the Year, but also contributed significantly to the defense's high tackling efficiency and overall performance. The Broncos defense, under coordinator Vance Joseph, also saw three players earn AP All-Pro honors, including Surtain, Nik Bonitto, and Zach Allen.

As they look towards free agency, the Broncos face decisions on several key players, including Surtain, who was exceptional in coverage and tackling. The team’s tackling efficiency was a notable improvement from the previous season, showcasing their growth. With impending free agents like Cody Barton, the Broncos may need to evaluate their roster and consider retaining their most effective players while parting with those who struggled.

The Denver Broncos face critical decisions regarding contract extensions for rush linebacker Nik Bonitto and defensive end Zach Allen this offseason. It is clear that the team should prioritize extending Allen ahead of the coming months, given his proven performance and increasing costs for similar players in the league.

In contrast, Bonitto's situation is more complex. Despite a strong career year and his first Pro Bowl selection, the Broncos are advised to wait until after the 2025 season before extending him. This strategy allows the team to assess Bonitto's ability to consistently replicate his success while potentially securing a more favorable contract.

The Denver Broncos are on the path to a swift rebuild, having achieved 10 wins and a playoff berth with a rookie quarterback. As the 2025 offseason approaches, critical roster decisions loom, with several key positions needing reinforcement, including running back, tight end, wide receiver, and offensive line depth. The team's current cap space sits at approximately $35.8 million, allowing for significant free-agent moves despite the lingering impact of Russell Wilson's contract.

The offseason will see a mix of unrestricted and restricted free agents, with notable players like D.J. Jones and Javonte Williams potentially departing. Key contributors like Zach Allen and Nik Bonitto are also in contract limbo, presenting both challenges and opportunities for the Broncos as they look to solidify their roster ahead of the draft.

The Denver Broncos saw an impressive turnaround in 2024, highlighted by the performance of rookie quarterback Bo Nix, who led the team into the playoffs for the first time in eight years. Nix's performance exceeded expectations, establishing him as a crucial part of the team's success.

Among the standout players was defensive lineman John Franklin-Myers, who was recognized as the Broncos' 'Secret Superstar' by Pro Football Focus. After joining the team from the New York Jets, he recorded 53 pressures, 23 stops, and a remarkable pass-rush win rate of 17.8%. His contributions solidified a strong defensive line alongside All-Pro Zach Allen and other key players.